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Florida Manatee Gathering

When the Gulf turns cold, manatees crowd into Florida's 72°F springs by the hundreds.

December 2026 to February 2027SeasonDecember 2026 to February 2027
Photo information

Florida Manatee Gathering

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Some attribution details are unavailable.
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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters / Public domain (Wikimedia Commons)

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December 2026 to February 2027Season
Crystal River, Florida, USAWhere it happens
500+manatees on the coldest days
Viewing advice

Manatees crowd the springs on the coldest days; warm spells thin the numbers.

The best time to see Florida Manatee Gathering in 2027 is December 2026 to February 2027. Timing status: Season.

Manatees can't tolerate cold water, so each winter they migrate to Florida's constant-temperature springs. On the chilliest days, hundreds gather in the crystalline water of Crystal River and Blue Spring, where you can watch, and sometimes swim near, them.

Florida Manatee Gathering: We couldn't help but share this photo of a manatee from the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge in Florida
Photo information

Florida Manatee Gathering

Photo
U.S. Geological Survey from Reston, VA, USA
Original
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Where to see it

These are the spots that catch it best. Tap one to see what's worth a trip nearby.

Cosmic events during this window

Cosmic events that peak while this season is on, so one trip could catch both. Meteor showers show the moon, since a dark sky is what makes them.

Related natural events

More moments to explore.

Frequently asked questions

When is Florida Manatee Gathering 2027?

Florida Manatee Gathering 2027: December 2026 to February 2027.